No one expects an emergency to occur at work, but it is always wise to be prepared to the best of your ability. Here are a few items to keep at your desk to become the office hero.

office desk
Batteries. 

Small and easy to store, batteries come in handy for flashlights, radios, and other small appliances. Keep the kind needed for the devices you use in case they become necessary on short notice.

Blanket. 

Even a smaller blanket may be useful in covering the face, if not the entire body, in the event of a fire or smoke. If a blanket is too big for your work desk, keep a towel instead to help block fumes, smoke, etc.

Emergency contact information.

Have the company’s emergency plan or policies in your desk, along with contact numbers for those who need to be notified, beyond emergency personnel. This may include HR or company officials as well as medical providers for questions.

First aid kit.

A first aid kit with bandages, antibacterial ointment, and over-the-counter pain relievers is helpful in case of an injury. It can be indispensable in an emergency.

Flashlight.

To go along with those batteries, a regular flashlight or larger lantern style is useful if the power goes out. Keep a battery with it to ensure it will work when needed.

Bottled water. 

Bottled water comes in handy if the workplace goes on lockdown, or in case of minor injuries that need to be washed when restroom access is blocked.

Portable radio. 

Although cell phones deliver most information these days, radio broadcasts may be able to pick up local news faster than larger news outlets. Stock the necessary batteries with the radio so it can be used without electricity.

A few small items like these can provide immediate help if an emergency should occur. Stock them to be prepared.